DEEP-TECH INDUSTRY NEEDS MORE THAN MERE SHOW

INDUSTRY LEADERS URGE GOVERNMENT TO ACT AS ANCHOR CUSTOMER AND PROVIDE PATIENT CAPITAL

- SANAL SUDEVAN

INDIAS technology companies showcased a range of innovations at the India AI Impact Summit in New Delhi, but deep-tech founders, venture capitalists and policy experts say that events alone are not enough to help the sector scale.

They are calling for stronger financing mechanisms, better market access and long-term policy clarity to unlock growth. After the Union Budget, the Centre admitted that deep-tech firms need longer gestation periods by increasing the revenue eligibility threshold to %300 crore and extending the incorporation window to 20 years. However, stakeholders argue that more structural reforms are needed.

Tamil Nadu remains the only state to roll out a dedicated deep-tech startup policy.

Industry leaders are urging the government to act as an anchor customer. Dr Ajai Chowdhry, Co-founder of HCL and Chairman of the Mission Governing Board of the National Quantum Mission, said the government should provide higher-value financing of at least 710-20 crore per innovation, and patient capital.